Generative tools are becoming a ‘third space’
between friends and therapy in daily life.
Beyond crisis moments, young Americans are increasingly using AI for everyday emotional check-ins, advice and reflection. The trend is reshaping how support is accessed and normalized.
Young Americans are not only turning to AI in moments of crisis but also weaving generative tools into the fabric of everyday emotional life. From asking chatbots how to navigate conflicts with friends to reflecting on self-esteem and body image, many are treating AI as a constant, low-pressure companion.
Users say these systems offer a space to vent, rehearse conversations and explore feelings without fear of judgment. Unlike social media, AI tools respond one-on-one, which can feel more intimate and less performative, especially for those wary of sharing vulnerabilities publicly.
Therapists and researchers are watching closely, noting both opportunities and risks. While AI can help normalize conversations about mental health and provide accessible guidance, it may also give oversimplified advice or miss warning signs that would stand out to human professionals.
The rise of AI as a “third space” between friends and formal therapy is prompting calls for clearer standards, better labeling and stronger safeguards. As the technology becomes more deeply embedded in daily routines, its role in shaping emotional norms for a generation will only grow.
